Data Loss Protection: Top 3 Data Policy Necessities

Having a policy that manages data and prevents data loss is one of the most important security features that a business needs to survive. With hackers, identity theft, and other cyber threats that are circling your business just waiting for a chance to pounce, prevention and protection should be at the forefront of every company’s thoughts. So how do you know if your data policy is sound? Here are 3 important features that every policy should contain:

1) Data Classification and Handling Standards. Every company has sensitive data, from financial records to personal employee information, and the right classification hierarchy is necessary to keep this data safe. The typical classification configuration has three basic levels: public, internal, and private, but depending on a company’s size and scope, classifications can be added as needed. Also, data handling standards are necessary to keep internal and private classified data encrypted and protected.

2) Access Checks. Of course, the point of adding classifications is to limit the number of users that have access to highly sensitive stores of company data, but it only takes one hole, one misconfigured setting, to have a major problem. Access checks are important to every company and should be performed at least once a month, if not more often.

3) Data Loss Protection (DLP) Network Software. This software acts as a filter for all data that is entering and leaving the network. It can be designed to red flag possible data breaches and illegal transfers, such as sending out alerts when it senses digits configured in Social Security Number formats (xxx-xx-xxx). This software takes snapshot images of sensitive data documents and can pick up on copies that might be floating around the network unprotected. Also, DLP Network Software can keep sensitive data from being deleted. Want weekly reports on network security? This software can deliver that as well.

The only way to prevent your company from suffering data loss or a data breach is to be prepared and take the correct cautionary measures. Not sure your company has taken the right steps to protect your network and corporate data? Contact one of our Breeze IT network experts.

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